Rockdale County approves first reading of 2026 budget, emphasizes public safety and reserves

The Rockdale County Board of Commissioners approved the first reading of the county's 2026 appropriation ordinance on Nov. 10, advancing a proposed $126.77 million budget that staff said is balanced and focused on public safety and workforce investment.

Finance staff (identified during the meeting as Krishna, the finance director) walked the board through budget highlights: projected revenues of $126,770,000, operating expenditures aligned to those revenues, and a focus on public safety where the proposed allocation is approximately $60.27 million (the largest increase in the budget). Staff said the budget closes earlier projected gaps through revenue adjustments, efficiency measures (for example bringing janitorial and HVAC services in-house), and a one-time $3.5 million capital transfer from the fund balance.

Officials noted debt-service obligations tied to the judicial/administrative complex and a land purchase (Sigman Road property) and discussed fleet and other loan obligations. Staff projected the fund balance reserve would remain above the county policy minimum (presenting an estimated post-transfer reserve in the low 40% range of appropriations, above the 35% policy threshold).

Why this matters: The budget commits resources to public safety and employee retention while relying on a limited use of reserves for capital. The second reading/possible adoption is scheduled for Nov. 18 and additional amendments may be proposed before adoption.

Representative quote: "We have balanced the budget, and we are at 126,770,000.00 right now for revenues," finance staff reported.

Next step: The board approved the first reading; the next public hearing and second reading is scheduled for Nov. 18 at 5:30 p.m.